DEC’s dispatch office receives more than 100,000 calls every year. Sean and Erica talk to Communication Specialist Alicia Bodmer and Communication Technician David McCasland from Ray Brook Dispatch about what it’s like to respond to challenging calls. From coordinating mountain and water rescues to deploying staff and equipment during extreme weather events, DEC dispatchers hear it all, playing a frontline role in helping Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and Spills Response experts get to where they’re needed most. It’s not all emergencies though – you’ll hear some lighthearted stories too, including one about an owl who isn’t such a fan of Garth Brooks.

Notes:

• Hike Smart NY: https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hiking/hike-smart-ny